Yes, there will be a fifth-generation Toyota Avalon

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Since replacing the Toyota Cressida (remember that one?) in the early 1990s, the Avalon has grown from a stretched version of the Camry to something a little larger, while trying to steer clear of overlapping with Lexus models. The current, fourth-generation Avalon that debuted in 2012 tried to distance itself from Camry looks, offering a fastback shape while continuing to share its platform with the Lexus ES.

In just a few weeks, the Avalon will enter its fifth generation as Toyota takes the wraps off the new Avalon at the Detroit auto show.

Every summer, I spend a couple of weeks at my in-laws' log cabin on Lake Michigan, in Door County, Wisconsin, and each time I try to drive a vehicle that will be admired and respected by ...

This glimpse of the 2019 Avalon's headlight and front fascia is just about the only image of the upcoming sedan that Toyota has shared, and it strongly suggests the Avalon will keep the large, two-tiered grille shape of the outgoing model. The Avalon will follow the debut of the all-new 2018 Toyota Camry, and is expected to stick to the V6, front-wheel-drive formula. Look for a hybrid version as well in 2018; the Avalon and its competition still need to hit fuel economy targets.

Speaking of the competition, as the SUV boom continuesbooming the Avalon is waging battle in a slowly dwindling full-size sedan market currently occupied by the likes of the undercover police-looking Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Impala, Chrysler 300 and Nissan Maxima. Don't expect to see any new competition for the Avalon for a while as automakers focus on utility vehicles.